Body found in river in hunt for missing kayaker

A body has been found in the hunt for a kayaker who went missing two weeks ago on a swollen Guildford river.

Police believe a man's body found near the Waterside Centre just after 6pm on Monday in the Surrey town is that of 56-year-old Grant Broster.

A Surrey Police spokesman said: "Although formal identification has not yet taken place Mr Broster's family have been notified.

Searchers scour the River Wey in Guildford, Surrey

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr Broster at this difficult time."

Police are understood to have cordoned off a towpath next to the River Wey after emergency services were called to the scene.

Firefighters and paramedics aided officers in the search near The Row Barge pub, before a body was pulled from the water.

Mr Broster disappeared when he was out kayaking on the river in the centre of Guildford 14 days ago.

The river was in flood following Storm Katie, and Mr Broster capsized in the high waters.

His son went into the water to try to help him and was eventually pulled to safety, but Mr Broster was swept away.

Onlookers said the kayak had been "dragged around like a bottle very fast".

The Environment Agency had issued a flood warning for the river in the Godalming area after it was swollen by the storm and the Wey Kayak Club had warned on Twitter that the river had "dangerous conditions" at the time.

A page set up to raise money for Surrey Search and Rescue, which helped police search for Mr Broster, has topped £7,000.

A statement on the JustGiving website said: "Grant's family particularly want to thank Surrey Police for their compassion and professionalism.

"They came today to tell us that Grant's body has been found. We hope another family benefits from Surrey Search and Rescue's services supported by your kind donations."

It added: "Thanks to all who have donated. Your generosity is massively appreciated and much more than we expected. It gladdens us to know that from bad comes good and that we can support those who give selflessly."

Among the messages of condolence to Mr Broster's wife Rachel and son Max was one which read: " Such awful news. Remembering the great times and the parties we had at Thakeham and the times we spent on the narrow boat."

Emily Glorney wrote: "So sad to hear of your loss and unsurprised to hear that you're diverting energy to helping others at this difficult time; you're all fabulous and strong people."

And Chris and Rachel Taylor added: " Grant is sorely missed by the U11s. An inspiring coach for those who'd played little rugby previously. His excitement was particularly touching after witnessing boys make their first ever tackle..."